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Facing Our Shadow: An Essential Practice for Our Times

Do you sometimes say about what you’ve just done, “I don’t know what got into me?”

Do you sometimes feel like you’re being run from “behind the scenes” or are stuck on automatic?

At such times, it’s very likely that your shadow is in charge.

Our “shadow” is our internal storehouse for the aspects of us that we’ve disowned or rejected or are otherwise keeping in the dark.

Everyone has a shadow but not everyone knows their shadow. And the degree to which we don’t know our shadow is the degree to which it influences, controls, runs us.

Knowing our shadow and working in depth with it are not just sideline pursuits, but rather necessary practices if we — both personally and collectively — are to really get on track, unchaining ourselves from our conditioning and embodying a life in which our differences only deepen our shared humanity.

Turning toward our shadow — however slightly — is a very significant step, signaling the start of a courage-deepening, life-affirming adventure that asks for much from us and gives back more than can be imagined.

Working in-depth with our shadow is a powerfully liberating labor, affecting every area of our life, furthering our capacity to become intimate with everything — everything! — that we are.

Our increasingly perilous times call for us to wake up to, to face and know our shadow very well, working with it in enough depth so that it no longer can run us. Staying oblivious to our shadow, as is especially common in all too many political and corporate arenas, simply reinforces our dysfunction, regardless of our achievements.

Bringing the contents of our shadow out of the dark so we can work with them is a risk — because of the potential changes it’ll catalyze — but not working with them is a much greater risk.

Let us not leave our shadow unexplored and unknown.

To meet and illuminate it, to relate to it skillfully, to make wise use of it, is a great gift to one and all.

Given the state of the world, perhaps the most relevant practice we can do is work in depth with our shadow, whatever the scale.

Some Signs That Your Shadow May Be Showing Up

You’re busy being reactive, having a disproportionate, knee-jerk take on something. Reactivity is activated shadow material.

You’re feeling numb or frozen or a sudden loss of power.

You’re acting out the same old dynamics — emotional reruns — in relationship.

You’re being overly critical of yourself, degrading yourself for not making the grade.

You are knowingly doing something that you know is not good for you.

You’re unable to say that you’re sorry when you have hurt another.

You’re getting defensive when the situation does not at all call for it.

Five Steps for Working with Reactivity

1. Get to know it.

To be reactive means to automatically and repeatedly act the same way while losing ourselves in the ensuing dramatics. Our buttons have been pushed, and we’re not about to shift out of automatic. But we can develop intimacy with our patterns of reactivity. We can learn how it shows up for us, including in its inception. How, for example, do we breathe when we’re about to get reactive? How do we hold our body? What do we tell ourselves? And so on.

2. Say “I’m being reactive” as soon as you recognize it.

Say this outloud if possible. Don’t justify it. There’s no need for any more words. Let the reality of what you’ve just said sink in. If another is present, give them enough time to register what you’ve just said.

3. State what you are actually feeling.

This can be either an emotion or the here-and-now sensations in your body. For example, “I’m feeling sad” or I’m feeling a tightness in my guts and throat.” Keep it simple. No need to explain or justify what you’re feeling. And make sure not to confuse feelings with perceptions. Saying “I don’t feel heard” is not a feeling per se, but a perception, which is open to debate. The voicing of actual feelings is, on the other hand, not debatable. Stick to the facts.

4. Shift your attention from your mind to your body.

Pull your attention away from what you’re thinking, and focus on the sensations in your body, especially your belly. Take five or so conscious breaths, paying close attention to your inhale and exhale. If you’re feeling especially reactive, repeat this once or twice. Shifting your attention from the mental to the physical will help ground you, breaking much of the grip of your reactivity.

5. Start working with what shows up.

Use your capacity for self-reflection to become more aware of what is present beneath your original reactivity. What do you notice? Is there a sense of a younger self that needs attention and care? Is there some old wounding that you’ve overlooked or not yet fully faced? Stay as transparent as possible. In such exploration, you will inevitably start to face what has been stored, to whatever degree, in your shadow. And make sure to get support if you need it!

The key to lifelong health lies in disease prevention and health maintenance, and the key to prevention is assessment!

When our health is not in good condition, our body will automatically give out certain alarms, such as fatigue, body aches, headaches, insomnia, lack of appetite, depression, anxiety, stress, fear, bad temper, palpitations, dizziness, and so on.

It is amazing that we can facilitate the healing of anyone when we consider the incredible range of things that can cause dysfunction in the body. Regardless of what a doctor calls an illness, in the end it must come down to this:

How are we going to restore the integrity of the person as a whole?

Forcing the body into drug-induced illusions of health with pharmaceuticals must be relegated to medical museums. Its time we begin to look at health from a full-spectrum perspective which allows us to holistically treat our ailments from the root rather than using a bandaid pharmaceutical approach.

The human body is composed of numerous cells, which continuously grow, develop, split, regenerate, and die. By splitting up, cells renew themselves, for adults about 25 million cells are splitting up every second and blood cells are constantly renewing at a rate of about 100 million per minute.

In the process of cellular split up and renewal the charged bodies of nucleus and extra nuclear electrons as the basis unit of a cell are moving and changing ceaselessly at a high speed as well, emitting electromagnetic waves without interruption.

The electromagnetic wave signals emitted by the human body represent the specific state of the human body, and the emitted electromagnetic wave signals are different under the body’s different conditions, such as health, sub-health, disease, etc. If we can determine these specific electromagnetic wave signals, we can determine the status of the body’s health and life.

The problem has always been how to assess and treat the body as one completely integrated organism, as opposed to the “pieces and parts” reductionist mentality of modern medicine.

WHY A Bio Resonance SCAN?

Early detection and focus on the root cause of the disease

Scans and checks the whole body from head to toe

Checks on organ functionality

Aware of current health status

Completely Radiation free and Non invasive

WHAT does it show you?

Over 35 items including;

Cardiovascular and Cerebral conditions

Bone mineral density

Trace elements

Blood lead

Rheumatism

Lung and Respiratory tract

Nephropathy

Blood sugar

Stomach and Intestines

Liver

Gallbladder

Cranial nerves

Gynecology

Prostate

Bone disease

Skin Elasticity and Aging

HOW does it work?

It is well known that the human body is defined by an electromagnetic field and transmits and receives electromagnetic waves. It is proven that in the healthy human body each cell, tissue, organ, etc. emits specific frequencies. Vibrations “foreign” to our body (external stresses, toxic metals, pesticides, bacteria, viruses, etc.) interfere with and disturb our body’s vibration field. As a result, diseased organs do not vibrate harmoniously.

Bioresonance uses technology that detects and reads the ultra-fine electromagnetic oscillations produced by each molecule, cell, organ, gland and system of the human body.

The magnetic frequency and energy of the human body are collected by holding the sensor, and after amplification of the instrument and treatment by the built in micro-processor, the data is compared with the standard resonant spectrum of diseases, nutrition, and other indicators incorporated in the instrument to judge whether the sample waveforms are irregular.

Analysis and judgement can thus be made on health condition and main problems of the client based on the result of waveform analysis, as well as standard protective and curative proposals.

The ultimate purpose of Bio Resonance Scanning is to identify specific frequencies of incoherence, from any source, in the tissue (pathology) and identify the corrective remedy or modality that will ultimately restore global coherence in the patient.

Initial sessions take anywhere from 1- 1.5 hours and include your report as well as suggestions on treatment selection based on your results.

Marina Love is an Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.

“We know that our bodies cannot always detoxify themselves properly if we have seen the lungs of a smoker, the liver of a drinker, the skin of a predominantly fast food eater, or even what calcium deposits do to our kidneys…people die earlier than they should every day because their bodies could not detox or detox fast enough.” – Dave Sandoval

I am so surprised at how little people are aware of the importance of detox when it comes to their health. I was engaged in a conversation with my hair dresser with when her next appointment arrived. I had just shared a couple $50 gift cards with her towards my detox system, so she gave one to the new arrival.

When offered my gift card she responded “I am vegan, so I do not need to detox thanks!” As she handed back the card, I was in absolute SHOCK.

It was like a dance music record came to a halt in my brain…and I thought to myself….So you are vegan which means that your diet/lifestyle is toxicity-free? It wasn’t my space to impinge on her decision, so as I left I continued to ponder….

People really do not understand the level of toxicity we are facing!

Every time we breathe, urinate, cough, sneeze, sweat, exfoliate, we are detoxifying. Our bodies are made to detoxify themselves through our organs. But we live in a world where we are constantly bombarded by pollutants in the air, in the soil, in our food, even within our homes.Many of us partake in regular consumption of fast food / ultra-processed foods and alcohol, which burden our bodies even further. When the flow of toxins into the body exceeds the body’s capacity to eliminate them, we start to really feel it. Your biology has been hijacked by the food industry. Just recently, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched an investigation on the E. coli outbreak killed one person and made 17 ill, in the U.S.

The likely culprit? Romaine lettuce! Crazy, right? Was a certain type of pesticide? And was it an isolated event at a specific farm? The answer isn’t too obvious yet and more research is needed. However, experts warn that when E. coli infests a particular batch of lettuce, the bacteria does not get removed when simply rinsing the fresh greens under water (as we normally do).

Unfortunately, these situations aren’t as uncommon as they sound. The health journal Nature, recently reported that the spread of two superbugs could be related to the popular sugar additive, trehalose. The sugar, which can be found in many of our favorite foods, could have increased the harmfulness of clostridum difficle (also know as C. difficle). Trehalose allows bacteria to feed off its nutrients and produce stronger toxins, worsening symptoms. Like the lettuce incident, more testing is extremely necessary.

Cases like these are good reminders to pay attention to what we eat. Buy organic food from trusted sources and, if there is a label, read it before buying and consuming. And stop eating raw cookie dough (yes, we’re talking to you)!

There is something you can do to fight other effects from harmful chemicals like GMOs and pesticide.

Cleanse your body!

By now you can see that cleansing is important, even if weight loss isn’t your goal (AND if you eat vegan!) Here are the signs that your body is SCREAMING for a detox;

1. You constantly feel fatigued, stressed and overwhelmed

2. You experience frequent headaches and/or lack of mental clarity

3. You often have skin breakouts and blemishes and/or a tiered, dull and lack-luster complexion

4. You seem to pick up colds, flus, bugs and viruses easily and are often on medication

7. You frequently have coffee, alcohol, drugs (prescription or otherwise) or cigarettes

8. You are exposed to common environmental toxins such as carbon emissions, cigarette smoke, herbicides, pesticides, artificial fragrances and household chemicals

9. You are carrying excess body weight

10. You often feel emotionally unstable, depressed, unmotivated and lacking energy and enthusiasm for life

First, we must understand that we can enhance the body’s ability to detoxify itself. When we consume clean food, our bodies can then drain toxins.

Think of your bathtub. If you remove the plug and turn on the water full blast, the water is then coming in faster than it drains, but it will not spill over the side of the tub for a while. It is the same with your body. So, the key is to turn down the flow of the “water” or toxins, so they can drain through the normal channels and not “overflow.”

A detox allows you to unhook yourself from the addictive power of sugar, flour, and hyper-processed, hyper-palatable food-like substances.

AND some unexpected results aside from eliminating food sensitivities, and getting a reboot!

You have better sex

You will have a Renewed ability to cope with stress

You can also have an emotional release

You will increase in your vibrational frequency

You will get glowing skin

Ultimately you will end up with a more resilient system, as well as deepening your consciousness

Even if you do not have any of the symptoms I highly encourage you to take advantage of now being the season to cleanse, where we can all benefit from reseting our health! Just think of what becomes possible when your nourish yourself richly!

If this post really calls to you please get in touch with me, I want to introduce you to my signature system that has helped thousands of people all over the world completely remodel and re-make their health!

Marina Love is an Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.

If you’ve visited a gym in the past year, chances are you’ve heard someone mention beet juice, or you’ve even witnessed firsthand a trim, muscular athlete down a bottle of the crimson-colored juice before pounding the weights.

Red beet root juice has become synonymous with performance, stamina and endurance.

The potential advantages of drinking beet juice include workout benefits, this ancient, prehistoric food offers much more. Beets contain a variety of unique health-boosting nutrients not found in or in good supply in other foods.

Organic beets deserve a place in your everyday diet for 7 important reasons:

They can boost your athletic performance, stamina, and endurance

They help promote a healthy normal inflammatory response

They help promote healthy blood flow throughout your body and brain

They support your body’s natural detoxificationprocesses

They support immune and cellular health

They promote brain neuroplasticity, or the ability to form new neural pathways, especially when consumed before exercise

They’re high in valuablenutrients: vitamin C, folate, potassium and manganese

So what is it about beets that make them such a unique and valuable vegetable?

Three things: nitrates, bioactive pigments called betalains, and other beneficial phytochemical compounds.

Beets are an excellent source of nitrates, which account for many of their potential health benefits.

All nitrates convert to nitrites in your body. Nitrites are found in the preservative sodium nitrite that’s added to processed meats, and they can also occur naturally in drinking water, fertilizer, sewage treatment facilities and septic systems.

Here’s the problem with nitrites in cured or processed meats… When you heat or cook these foods, the nitrites can convert into nitrosamines, a dangerous substance. For that reason, I recommend avoiding any meat with sodium nitrite listed on the package label.

The naturally occurring nitrates in beets also convert to nitrites when you eat them, by the bacteria in your mouth. But the similarities end there.

Beets contain high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients that provide a protective effect against the health-harming actions of nitrites. Thanks to these valuable nutrients, the converted nitrites in beets don’t pose a threat to your health.

Beets contain one of the highest levels of nitrates found in foods and that’s a real plus. When you eat beets, your body converts these nitrates into nitric oxide, or NO, through what’s known as the ‘nitrate-to-nitrite-to-nitric oxide (NO) pathway’.

And NO just happens to be vital for life…

Nitric Oxide: The Key to Healthy Blood Flow and Other Potential Benefits

If you were to look inside your blood vessels, you would see a thin lining of cells called the endothelium.

These endothelial cells line your entire circulatory system, from your heart to the smallest of your capillaries.

Inside these cells, a soluble gas called nitric oxide, or NO, is continually produced from the amino acid, L-arginine.

This gas, NO, is an important signaling molecule in every cell of your body. It plays an important role in:

Supporting your cardiovascular health

Promoting your normal endothelial function

Promoting healthy dilation of your veins and arteries to support healthy blood flow

Nitric Oxide – and healthy blood flow – both are essential for energy production and optimal performance throughout your entire body, including your brain and muscles.

Obviously, without healthy blood flow, the functions of your cells and organs, including those of your brain, might be compromised.

Healthy Blood Flow and Your Brain

Studies show that beet juice with exercise helps deliver more oxygen to the brain

Your brain is one of the most oxygen-demanding organs in your body. Because nitric oxide travels to the parts of your body requiring oxygen, your brain can potentially benefit when you have abundant NO.

A recent study of 26 men and women aged 55 and over examined how beet juice affects brain health when combined with exercise.

This group of individuals did not regularly exercise before the study. During the study, the participants walked for 50 minutes on a treadmill one hour after drinking beet juice, three times a week.

Fluoride and chlorine if present in your drinking and showering water can convert NO into other substances, including toxic and destructive nitric acid.

Since your daily performance matters – whether you’re an athlete or just want your body to function at its optimal best, it makes good sense to do all you can to optimize your blood flow.

Making sure you get regular, sensible sun exposure, moving and exercising more, and addressing your stress with meditation, yoga, and deep breathing are all valuable first steps you can take to promote healthy blood flow.

Adding beets to your daily regimen is another important step you can take.

Taking simple steps like these can help you feel more energetic and enjoy a clearer, more focused mind.

You’ll be helping to nourish your heart, brain, and muscles with the oxygen and nutrients they need for optimal functioning.

And, with improved blood flow, you may even discover you have the strength and motivation to exercise regularly, if you’re not already.

Whether you desire a boost for your stamina and endurance, support for your body’s natural detox processes, protect your cells and organs against environmental stress, or just want to support healthy blood flow throughout your brain and body, this product might be just the ticket!

Try them today at $50 off when you visit www.ishoppurium.com and use the code: magicpotion at checkout!

Marina Love is an Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.

The Dark Night of the Soul has been referenced by spiritual teachers for ages. It is an inner journey that one is called to undertake at various stages in life, one where the mind’s limited perceptions of reality are utterly transformed. This experience can be considered a form of death: the dissolution of an ideal, a rupture in a comfort zone, and the recalibration of a belief system that is no longer valid for the destiny you are here to realize as a conscious, awakened soul.

The Dark Night can be sparked by any major life change or challenge: the ending of a relationship, the death of a loved one, the loss of home or income or any perceived traumatic event. It may also arise as a natural progression of one’s spiritual evolution, a call to surrender all attachments to an identity limiting one’s soul potential. Grief, anger, depression, guilt, heartache, despondency, and physical and mental exhaustion are a few of the states that may accompany this profound journey.

Embracing the darkness

We as a culture are going through a collective Dark Night of the Soul. All of the changes and uprisings we are witnessing in the world – environmental, political, racial, financial, medical, and gender inequality – are indicators of a (r)evolutionary shift in consciousness. These external stirrings are activating our personal shadows, reflecting the changes that must occur internally if we are to birth a new era and usher in a new paradigm. This isn’t something that may happen. This IS happening.

Everything that we perceive outside of us is actually a part of us, a projection from within; hence, all we see is but a shadow of our internal reality. In order to become empowered, we must face and embrace the external symbols that reflect our internal darkness. When we choose to take full responsibility for being the creators of life ̶ pulling back our negative projections, accepting our darkness and coming face to face with our inner demons ̶ we open the doorway to a spiritual transformation that leads to a profound shift in consciousness.

This alchemical process looks very much like a healing crisis as the limited personality transfigures through the Dark Night and is reborn as its true Self. However, as long as we hold the belief that we are victims of some external reality, we cannot traverse the spiritual birth canal and actualize that great being within: the soul.

Why me?

During one of my many sojourns into the Dark Night, I found myself protesting, “Why me? What have I done to deserve this? Why must I endure such pain and suffering?” I was deep in my despair, pleading with God, the universe and anyone who would listen, searching for a clue, some morsel of wisdom as to why anyone should have to go through such an experience.

At my lowest point, I came across the movie Joseph, a portrayal of the biblical story of the favorite son of Jacob who was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. I watched in awe as Joseph’s ordeal spoke to my distress and responded to my questions, consoling my weary mind and helping me accept my intense experiences.

After watching this epic saga, I was humbled by this portrayal of one man’s struggle through a series of adversities, unjustified incarceration and the enduring of extreme psychological pain and suffering. Joseph’s life was the embodiment of The Dark Night of the Soul, and yet, despite his many trials and tribulations, he arose victorious. Each descent into the Dark Night was an initiatory experience preparing him for a future time that required unwavering presence. Ultimately, due to his faith and inner resolve, he rose from the lowest position to the second highest saving all of Egypt from famine.

Staying the course

There is no way Joseph could have known where his future was going; all he knew was to stay the course, to trust the process and keep the faith. This is the most important guidance when sitting in the Dark Night, for a metamorphosis is unfolding that cannot be understood, one that will test the limits of endurance and challenge your cast-iron convictions. You will be asked to accept the unacceptable, to forgive the unforgivable, to surrender all past transgressions no matter how unjust, unfair or injurious. You will be asked to befriend the shadow, that you may transform that shadow, burning through the darkness in the transfiguration.

Staying fully present with what is arising is essential, for as you surrender into the depths of the experience, an alchemical process is activated, transmuting darkness into light: a spiritual current that opens the heart, purifies the mind, expands one’s consciousness and, ultimately, leads to enlightenment – the capacity to perceive beyond the veil of separation and embody unity consciousness.

The story of Nelson Mandela’s life exemplifies this experience: of being with what is, of allowing the darkness to purify one’s consciousness until it is time to arise transformed. His contribution to South Africa after his liberation was monumental, a testament to what can occur when we fully surrender into the darkness and accept the challenges imposed upon us as a catalyst to realizing some greater truth.

Identity is a construct

Who you think you are is simply a mental construct, a conditioned persona that wears a societal mask. However, to connect with your soul and fulfill its purpose, that mask must come off.

In order to go through this profound transformation, it is important to accept that who you are today is but a shadow of your true Self, and that all of your afflictions are fodder for the transformation you are destined to go through and not something to “get rid of.” The muck of your existence is the fertile soil from which you grow into a great being. Avoiding issues, distracting yourself with inane pursuits and suppressing symptoms is to bypass the purpose of life: to heal and become whole.

However, we as a culture are conditioned to strive for happiness, to eradicate “negative” feelings and experiences at all cost. This incessant need to “feel good” and regard all negative states as problematic can lead to behaviors that are numbing in order to evade the darkness. Looking towards the external world to “cut the edge” of internal pain and suffering by engaging in addictive behaviors (recreational drugs, alcohol, sex, work, shopping, etc.) or taking anti-feeling meds all serve to numb the deeper, more painful aspects of our psyche, leaving us but a shell of a human, walking around in a semiconscious daze we call life.

But despite all the distractions, the feelings never go away; they simply go underground until they emerge once again, this time louder and more persistent in the form of disease. Hence, the commitment to be with all that arises is the cornerstone for success.

And even though there may be profound personal suffering, the evolution that occurs during the Dark Night is beyond personal gain. Rather, it is for the collective, for each time one of us goes through this experience, we become a beacon for others who are struggling, for those who are trying to make sense of a world that is unraveling in a reality that is shifting faster than the mind can comprehend. Therefore, our individual healing alleviates the collective wound and our transformed presence serves as a catalyst arousing others to embark on the path of awakening.

How do you know you’re in it?

When the Dark Night appears, things begin to go haywire as the once stable existence of your life is turned upon its head. The mind has a hard time making sense of its shifting reality as the inner world erupts with intense feelings not previously present. Fear, confusion, anxiety, depression, and a host of other emotions may emerge as Pandora’s Box is flung open revealing the contents of the subconscious, a domain that runs 95% of our lives. When confronted by the complex realities and inexplicable paradoxes operating within this unexplored terrain, chaos ensues as the foundation that was once considered “normal life” comes apart.

In this place, existential questions arise from the void of dissolution: Who am I? What is my purpose? What’s the point of life? What is going on?

Indeed, what is going on?

Change. Profound change is going on, and anytime you try to answer any one of these questions, 10 more arise for there is no self to respond from when in the throes of the Dark Night. The feeling is like being in between worlds, within a paradox of existence: in the body but void of substance; possessed of a mind but lacking coherence; and completely present but with a center that is both everywhere and nowhere. There is no anchor, for there is no identity, for there is no self.

Then, slowly, things begin to reassemble. With clear vision and a shift in perspective a new paradigm erupts. Those things that formerly captivated you may no longer hold any interest. There may emerge the desire to change careers, end relationships, move the location of your home, minimize social interactions, modify the diet or alter any number of life experiences. Change becomes the name of the game as you simplify your life to reflect the greater truth within.

Guidance and support

Having a spiritual teacher/mentor during the Dark Night is paramount. If I didn’t have someone “holding space” for me, translating the energetic nuances during these difficult times, I don’t know how I would’ve navigated the difficult and complex terrain alone. It is wise to choose an adept, a skilled veteran who has been through the alchemical process, that you may be guided by someone with direct experience. Also, a holistic practitioner who works with natural approaches to health and healing will prove to be an invaluable ally during these times.

I have found energy medicine, specifically flower essences, to be a godsend during these challenging times. In my holistic healing practice, flower essences have proven to be the most expeditious medicine for my clients as they effectively support the clearing of old patterns and the integration of new paradigms. When intense acute states arise, they are able to alleviate symptoms quickly and efficiently, thereby restoring balance to the body and mind. However, these remedies do not suppress what is arising; instead, they generate a quickening in comprehension of the underlying cause of dis-ease, allowing for the full assimilation of the experience while minimizing pain and suffering.

During the Dark Night I have found these specific flower essences to be of greatest assistance:

Aspen is beneficial when anxiety and fears of the unknown arise, for when there are vague feelings that something terrible is going to happen.

Cherry Plum supports those times when there is a fear of letting go, of losing control and having a mental/emotional breakdown. These are times of high stress and anxiety due to unconscious patterns/conflicts/shadows rising to the surface.

Elm is helpful when there is a feeling of overwhelm due to all the stressors of the inner transformation, where daily tasks and responsibilities are simply impossible to attend to.

Gorse helps when feelings of depression and hopelessness are present, where there is great suffering and the sense that things will not get better.

Mimilus quells everyday known fears such as the fear of death, failure, pain, poverty or the future.

Mustard clears temporary feelings of depression/melancholy, as if a dark cloud has descended out of nowhere and for no apparent reason.

Pine is useful when there is guilt, self-blame, self-criticism and a negative self-image. Feelings of despondency, unworthiness and inferiority can be allayed with Pine.

Rescue Remedy is helpful for the initial stages of any traumatic experience to quickly reestablish equilibrium.

Star of Bethlehem is a healing balm that neutralizes past shock and trauma, thereby restoring the self-healing mechanism of the body/mind.

Sweet Chestnut is the foremost remedy for the Dark Night of the Soul as it addresses the feelings of extreme despair, dejection and loneliness. It is to be taken when one has reached “rock bottom” where there is helplessness, isolation and the feeling of being utterly lost inside.

Walnut is the “breaker of spells” and assists in cutting the cords with the past. It helps with making healthy transitions and important changes when stuck in old paradigms or caught in relationships that no longer serve. Walnut encourages taking the necessary steps to fulfill the soul’s destiny.

Remedies can be taken singularly or in combination with others. A skilled flower essence therapist is able to pinpoint which remedies are most needed to facilitate a graceful transition through the Dark Night of the Soul.

A boon for the soul

When the Dark Night descends, it should be considered a blessing as it a sign of great things to come. It is the doorway to an evolution in consciousness that the soul has been anticipating since birth.

The thought of welcoming the Dark Night as if you were inviting a friend over may sound absurd, but it is anything but, as it initiates a shift in consciousness that ultimately births the true Self.

Imagine the caterpillar that one day awakens to realize that the life it has been living is now complete. It has gone as far as it could in its inching reality and it is now time to expand beyond its known identity. Without any resistance, it embraces the inner call to evolve and instinctually creates a space where it can go through the transformation. During this time, it morphs into another, seemingly unrecognizable being, dying to its former limited self as it realizes the transcendent Self.

You are the caterpillar. And you are the butterfly. When the Dark Night descends, embrace it, that you may grow wings to reach the heights that reveal the sights your soul has longed to see.

Blessings on your journey…

Joseph Aldo

Joseph Aldo, PhD is an intuitive holistic healer, spiritual mentor and holds a PhD in Natural Health. For over 20 years he has provided guidance and support for healers and lay people who are on a conscious path of healing. He is an author, poet, inspirational speaker and facilitator of transformational workshops. Joseph holds a private practice in NYC and Asheville, NC.

“The most powerful path to our brain—and peace of mind—is through our gut.”

Today, millions of people have gut dysbiosis that leads to poor digestion and mood as well as a constant state of low-grade inflammation. While restoring optimal gut flora demands a variety of interventions, it begins with eliminating grains, dairy, sugar and GMOs from your diet. Dietary change is the first step because we can change the microbiota dominance within 72 hours of making simple changes to remove potential immune system triggers and rebalance gut flora.

While this news is empowering, finding motivation to prepare and cook new foods can be difficult when experiencing the fatigue and depression often accompanied by a leaky gut. We’ve made it easy with these four simple recipes that can be made in 30 minutes or less and incorporate specific ingredients to support gut healing.

1. Taco Soup

Because our modern diets are largely focused on muscle meat consumption, many of us lose out on the benefits of consuming bones, skin, and tendons as was ancestral practice.Traditional stock made from the bones of pastured animals is used in gut-healing protocols such as the GAPS diet for mucosal repair. You can make your own in a stockpot or purchase online or from your local health food store. Below is one of my favorite recipes for incorporating bone broth into the diet on a regular basis.

Ingredients:

4 cups chicken bone broth

1 pound ground beef

2 zucchini, chopped into quarter moons

2 large table carrots, cut into matchsticks (1/8″ to 1/4″ thick)

4 radishes, sliced thinly (1/8″ to 1/4″ thick)

1 bunch cilantro, chopped

1 bunch scallions, chopped (white stems and green tops separated)

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon sea salt

2 limes, halved

2 avocados, chopped

Bring zucchini and stock to a boil in a large saucepan, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Meanwhile cook beef and chopped white scallion stems on a skillet on medium heat. Once cooked thoroughly, add beef, cumin and salt to the saucepan with the soup. Add carrot and radish slices then turn off the heat. Serve soup topped with cilantro, green onion tops, avocado and lime. Store soup up to four days (toppings separately) in the fridge or freeze for up to one month.

2. Pumpkin Protein Cookies

Collagen and gelatin provide the gut-healing benefits of traditional bone broth in convenient and versatile powders. The high glycine content of gelatin may also help with insomnia, anxiety, joints, hair, and skin. These cookies contain collagen, gelatin, and coconut to provide a delicious yet nourishing treat. Coconut is abundant in the healthy saturated fats that are key to healing your gut by repairing the lining of your digestive tract. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of coconut gently support and clean your gastrointestinal system. These “cookies” make great snacks. Reach for one of these instead of a gluten- and dairy-filled treat and your gut and taste buds will thank you. Kids love them, too!

Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine all ingredients in the order listed above until well-combined. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper. Form dough into 12 mounds about 2 inches in diameter, and place onto lined sheet. Bake for 20-24 minutes. Cool for at least 10 minutes, then drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons coconut butter on top.

3. Turmeric Latte

You may have seen this recipe on my blog before, but if you haven’t tried it yet, this is one you don’t want to miss! Coffee can contribute to dehydration and cortisol elevation, both unconducive to gut-healing. While it does not have to be eliminated forever, I do recommend removing coffee for at least 30 days to kickstart the healing process. Below is a great replacement that can be sipped any time of day. Turmeric is known for its strong anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Ginger also contains strong therapeutic properties the can help reduce the irritation and inflammation caused in the intestinal lining. You can make the paste ahead of time or simply follow the recipe below.

Ingredients:

1 cup coconut milk

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 (1/2-inch-wide) slice fresh ginger root, peeled and finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon raw honey or maple syrup, to taste

Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth. Pour the mixture into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until hot but not boiling, 3 to 5 minutes. Drink immediately.

4. Aloe-Mint Smoothie

This recipe includes ingredients to cool and soothe the digestive system. Aloe vera helps heal the lining of a damaged intestinal tract. Berries, avocado, mint, and ginger provide healthy antioxidants and soothing properties. Again, coconut oil and collagen are featured for their therapeutic benefits explained above. This portable smoothie makes a great breakfast will provide energy and satiety for hours.

Gut healing can seem like a daunting task at first, so reduce overwhelm by approaching it one delicious meal at a time. After you have changed your diet, you can then consider incorporating self-care and detox practices that will further support healing.

If you are looking to radically transform your health – I invite you to check out my newly launched online superfood emporium at http://www.ishoppurium.com – I am gifting all Love Movement readers $50 towards their first purchase by using the code: magicpotion at checkout!

Marina Love is an Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.

A healthy kitchen provides the foundation for a healthy gut and a healthy you. It’s important to remember that the food industry holds your kitchen hostage. It is very likely that your cupboards and pantry are filled with ultra-processed goods. Detoxifying your kitchen allows you to escape these shackles and transform your kitchen into a place of radiant health.

The first step is to detoxify your Fridge and Pantry. Toss the junk food! If it’s not there you won’t eat it. It’s that simple. If you have to get in your car and drive five miles, you probably will skip that donut, cookie, or ice cream. You are removing ways to unconsciously sabotage yourself.

If you make your kitchen a safe zone with only foods that nourish rather than harm, then you will automatically make the right choices. If you fill it with garbage, you will eat garbage, no matter how much willpower you have.

I’ve created a four-step process to effectively detoxify your kitchen and restock it with healthy foods.

Step 1: Set aside an hour to purge your kitchen.

Schedule it into your planner if you need to. This requires some detective work. Read food labels for added sugar and other junk ingredients that don’t belong in a healthy kitchen. Get a large garbage bag ready (rinse out containers and recycle if you can) to throw out the junk. It might take longer depending on how much hidden junk and toxic ingredients lurk in your cupboard or fridge.

Step 2: Scrutinize labels.

Ideally, you’ll replace anything that is questionable with real fresh or whole foods without labels. A fresh avocado or kiwi doesn’t come with a nutrition facts label, a barcode, or ingredient list. If you decide to keep foods with labels, follow these rules.

Focus on the ingredient list, not the “nutrition facts” that are mostly designed and developed under huge food industry lobby efforts to confuse and confound your efforts to eat healthy.

If you don’t recognize a word, can’t pronounce it, or it is in Latin, or you don’t have it in your cupboard and wouldn’t use it in a recipe—maltodextrin, for instance—then don’t use it.

On every ingredient list, note that the most abundant component is listed first. The others follow in descending order by weight.

Be conscious of ingredients that may not be on the list. Some may be exempt from labels. Get rid of these foods.

Beware of foods with health claims on the label. These claims usually signal a marketing ploy to make you think they’re good for you when they’re really just healthy pretenders. Things like sports beverages, energy bars, and even multigrain breads (which often contain high-fructose corn syrup) fall into this category.

Step 3: Ditch These Foods

When you detoxify your body, you eliminate harmful toxins. Likewise, when you detoxify your kitchen you’ll want to get rid of any food that contains these harmful ingredients.

You probably know obvious sugar culprits, but be aware of hidden sugars that lurk in salad dressings, processed foods, drinks, and even “healthy” foods like cereals and wheat. Sugar goes by many aliases. Just as boys named Andrew often go by Andy or Drew, sugar might be called organic cane juice, honey, agave, maple syrup, cane syrup, or molasses. There are 257 names for sugar, most made from corn with names that you wouldn’t recognize—like maltodextrin—which make you fat and addicted. Look carefully at condiments like salad dressing, barbecue sauce, or ketchup, which are often traps for high-fructose corn syrup.

Bad fats. Don’t be afraid of fat. Fat doesn’t make you fat, but the wrong fats can wreak serious metabolic havoc. Toss out any highly refined cooking oils such as corn and soy, fried foods you may have stored in your freezer, and margarine or shortening. These have dangerous trans fats that create inflammation and cause heart disease. Scour labels for the words “hydrogenated fat” (another phrase for trans fat), which has finally been declared not safe for consumption by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Artificial sweeteners. Throw out food with artificial sweeteners of all kinds (aspartame, NutraSweet, Splenda, sucralose, and sugar alcohols—any word that ends with “ol,” like xylitol or sorbitol). Stevia may be better than aspartame, but only whole plant extract, not PureVia and Truvia, which are made by Pepsi and Coke and are chemical extracts of stevia. Use very sparingly. A new non-caloric sweetener that comes from monk fruit that’s rich in antioxidants can also be used in small amounts. But remember, any sweetener can make you hungry, lower your metabolism, create gas, and store belly fat. I’m not a big fan of any of them.

Anything with ingredients you can’t pronounce. If you purchase something with a nutrition label, there should be less than five ingredients on it and all things that a third grader would understand like “tomatoes, water, salt.” Focus on the ingredient list, not the “nutrition facts,” which are mostly designed and developed under huge food industry lobby efforts to confuse and confound your efforts to eat healthy.

Any potentially questionable food or ingredients. Seemingly safe foods like spices and seasonings can contain maltodextrin, autolyzed yeast extract, and even high-fructose corn syrup that have no place in a healthy kitchen.

Step 4: Stock Up on These!

Now that you’ve purged unhealthy foods, you want to replace your refrigerator, kitchen cabinets, and cupboards with fresh, healthy foods. These are the ones you’ll want to load your kitchen with:

Non-starchy veggies. Eat as many as you like! Limit fruits because they increase your insulin levels. Berries are your best bet. When possible, choose organic, seasonal, and local produce. When you can, avoid the most pesticide-contaminated fruits and vegetables by consulting the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list (www.ewg.org) and instead choose from the “Clean Fifteen” list featuring the least contaminated options. Just make sure you’re buying unseasoned or unsweetened varieties. Also check out your local farmer’s market or community supported agriculture (CSA). You can find the one closest to you atwww.localharvest.org.

Dry foods. These staple foods usually have a longer shelf life and include raw or lightly roasted nuts and seeds, and legumes.

Herbs, spices, and seasonings. You’ll want to have a range of pantry ingredients, including seasonings and spices, on hand. Buy organic when you can. Because you only use a little of some of these, they tend to last a long time so you get a lot of value from them. Among my favorites include extra virgin olive oil, extra virgin coconut oil, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and seasonings and spices. Just read your labels to ensure they don’t contain hidden sugar, gluten, or other problematic additives.

Get in the habit of keeping your fridge and freezer stocked with these items. When selecting beef or meat, choose grass-fed, hormone-free, or organic, whenever possible.

Be sure to avoid those fish that are high in mercury, such as tuna, swordfish, and Chilean sea bass.

With these strategies, you’re ready to begin detoxifying your kitchen. Your brain and gut will be glad you did!

Spring is just around the corner and if you are interested in doing a whole body detox I have various “Transformation Systems” available in my online store. Ranging from 10 day to 40 day, using nutrient dense organic superfoods! If you want to sleep better, feel and look better there’s no better time then to start something new now! I am gifting all my Love Movement readers $50 towards their purchases when they use the code: magicpotion at checkout! Don’t miss out on this chance to rapidly transform your body and quality of life.

Marina Love is an Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.

It is a quote we use often but forget the depths of it’s meaning. The themes for this time of year include the array of experiences in an inner, contracted, cold, dead, and depending where you live – challenging phase.

What is Seasonal Depression?

As the weather changes, up to 10% of people living in northern latitudes will be categorized as depressed. Considered an independent disorder, seasonal depression is a box given to people who report feeling sluggish, have difficulty concentrating, crave carbs, and withdraw from social activities a.k.a “Hibernating”.

Risk factors for seasonal depression include living far from the equator, having a history of depression, and being female! As women are four times more likely to be diagnosed with seasonal depression than men – and then put on antidepressants to mask these symptoms.

Our society fails to recognize the cyclical nature of life that was celebrated for centuries by our tribal ancestors. What if we begin to recognize that the universe is governed by cycles: within the day, within the month, and within the year? Amazingly, even our bodies are governed by cycles. You’ve likely heard of circadian rhythms, the idea that our hormones and blood pressure fluctuate in harmony with the sun, and women’s cycles align with the moon. Maintenance of these cycles is so important that their disruption can lead to neurodegenerative diseases and mood disorders like depression.

This goes even deeper as our individual cells operate in a cyclical nature as well, where recent studies have shown that our immunity is different depending on the time of day; a wound at night heals slower than a daytime wound. It’s also key to note that thyroid functioning also slows in the winter, which is not a pathology – just a response to the season.

Recognizing that winter is just part of the cycle, can we reframe our experience of this season? What if we considered winter as a sacred time of hibernation and preparation for the rebirth of spring?

Little do we know, if we can be constructive in this time, finding beauty in it, we can use this phase to charge up what we want to birth out in the spring. In order for us to use this time wisely it is important that we are feeling our very best!

Below you will find my recommendations for helping to manage seasonal affective disorder (NOTE* this information is not intended as medical advice and should not be interpreted as such) allowing for balance in times when our tendency is to go to the dark side. Bymaking sure that you are well nourished and you have all your mineral levels on point you will raise your vibration and begin to embrace the cycle of winter.

I want to start by saying that I wish we didn’t need to supplement but truth be told, we are living in a toxic world that depletes our bodies. We are living domesticated lives, where we do not connect to the earth’s healing energies and elements as much as needed. Spending most of our time indoors, wearing shoes, breathing and eating toxins – this all takes a toll. Unless we live on a beach exposing ourselves to spectrums of sunlight, and are outside all day eating foods grown from nutrient dense uncontaminated soils then we need to replenish what is lost, and that is where supplements come to the rescue!

#1. Sungaze and get outside. The eyes need to drink in the full spectrum of sunlight each day! Sunlight activates our pineal gland, which is connected to the hypothalamus, where the sun-energy triggers vital magnetic, electrical, and chemical reactions in the human body. Don’t stare directly into the sun midday, only as it rises and sets (an hour after sunrise/ within the hour of sunset.) Science proves that sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin (the neurotransmitter that promotes well-being), and melatonin (a hormone that promotes calmness). Even if the sky is clouded over, light is still nourishing you with essential vitamins which leads me to the next tip.

#2. Vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D is not your typical vitamin. Dubbed as the sunshine vitamin, that’s best obtained through safe sun exposure, not through fortified foods like milk! When sunshine is lacking, it’s crucial to be taking a Vitamin D supplement. It is a vital nutrient that provides a wide range of health benefits, which help you combat different types of infections and diseases. It has been found to affect the expression of almost 3,000 different genes and is critical for good overall health. It impacts not only our skeletal structure, but also our blood pressure, immunity, mood, brain and nervous system function, and regulating cell growth and for healthy cell-to-cell communication. With that said, a deficiency in it makes you vulnerable to feeling low.

I use a really cool product from Living Libations that allows me to obtain the Vitamin D transdermally through a cream. Transdermal (topical) application is one of the best ways of administering substances quickly and effectively because it allows absorption directly through the skin!

#3. Activated B Complex. B vitamins are important for your brain, nervous system and immune function, energy production, cell metabolism, organ and tissue health and much more. It’s one of the basic building blocks of life. And it’s one of the all-star antidepressants. Specifically, We all need vitamin B12 to make red blood cells and nerve cell membranes and to regulate the expression of our DNA and multiple other brain and body-based functions. It protects the brain and nervous system, regulates rest and mood cycles, and keeps the immune system functioning properly. A severe deficiency can lead not only to deep depression, paranoia and delusions, and memory loss, but also incontinence, the loss of taste and smell, and, eventually, physical brain shrinkage and dementia. I prefer this product in liquid form, and I take it at the same time as my D3/K2 drops on an empty stomach first thing in the morning.

#4. Detox Minerals: Magnesium, Selenium, Zinc, and Iodine. Virtually everyone living in the 21st century has a toxic load as a result of more than 80,000 chemicals we are exposed to. If we are deficient in minerals our body will be seriously limited in it’s ability to remove these toxins. In synergy, these minerals will work as powerful antioxidants and help to neutralize the harmful effects of toxins while optimizing your brain, heart, and thyroid health.

I personally recommend this product Liquid Light, Not only does it contain the minerals listed above but it also have other very important trace elements and detoxifying minerals. In addition you can simply start with Magnesium, by getting it into your body via taking a bath with Epsom Salts.

#6. Evening Primrose Oil. Extracted from the seeds of it’s namesake wildflower, Evening Primrose offers a rich source of Omega-6 fatty acids, specifically the anti-inflammatory omega-6 gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is hard to come by in the diet alone. This flower has been used for the past nearly 100 years to address various health conditions, from premenstrual syndrome, and menopausal symptoms to rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, neurological disorders to brittle hair and nails, and eczema. Make sure the supplement is certified organic and is high quality.

#7. Grandmas favourite medicine. Used in the fuel for lamps, tanning of hides, liquid soaps, and most importantly as food and therapy Cod Liver Oil from Atlantic cod has helped humankind for centuries! Contains naturally occurring vitamins A and D, it is also a very rich source of the omega fatty acids EPA and DHA. It cures vitamin D deficiency and it’s horrid consequences at the extreme: Rickets! My favourite company that makes a clean Cod Liver Oil supplement is Green Pastures.

#8. SAMe. Approved as a nutraceutical since the 1990s and prescribed in Europe for depression for three decades, SAMe has a time-tested proven efficacy for depression and anxiety. A naturally occurring molecule synthesized by the one-carbon cycle that is dependant on B12 and folate, it is a precursor to many key biomolecules including creatine, phosphatidylcholine, co-enzyme Q10, carnation, and myelin. All of these chemicals in the body play a role in pain, depression, liver disease, and other conditions. Look for capsules that are enteric coated and packaged into a blister pack.

#9. L-Theanine. I call thissubstance“Meditation”, found primarily in tea this calming amino acid can promote alpha wave brain production, which can reduce anxiety and support a relaxed but focused mind-set. You can get it in capsule form but my favourite source is in Matcha tea. I love whipping up one of my infamous potions and dosing it nicely with Matcha as the centrepiece.

#10. N-Acetyl Cysteine. Replenishing intracellular levels of the natural antioxidant glutathione (GSH), NAC helps to restore the ability of cells to fight damage from free radicals. It has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and to be effective for treating compulsive disorders. Don’t be fooled by it’s name, which sounds chemical and unnatural, N-acetyl Cysteine is a slightly modified version of the sulfur containing amino acid cysteine. I like the brand Pure Encapsulations for this product.

#11. Rhodiola. This adaptogenic herb grows at high altitudes in arctic areas of Europe and Asia. Appropriately called Arctic root or Golden root, Rhodiola rosea acts in nonspecific ways to increase resistance to stress without disrupting normal biological functions. Increasing athletic and sexual energy, evidence also suggests that this antioxidant boosts immune function. Multiple studies have been shown that Rhodiola is effective in improving the conditions of patients with anxiety and depression. I love taking Rhodiola in tincture or powder form in my potions, you may prefer it in capsule form for easy dosing.

#12. Turmeric. There are more than 7 thousand published studies that explore the efficacy of curcumin, which is the most active polyphenol in the Indian spice Turmeric. I truly consider this root nature’s gift to us, not only is it highly anti-inflammatory it also a potent anti-oxidant, neuroprotective agent, hormone and neurochemical modulator, and a general friend to our genome. You can cook with it to get it into your diet, however I love juicing it with cucumber, celery, lemons, ginger, and topping it with a sprinkle of black pepper. It’s available in supplement form for those who would rather the convenience.

I truly hope you found this list resourceful, I was struggling so deeply years ago after a concussion left me in a manic state back in 2016. Having battled with depression time to time most of my life, my concussion took it to the next level. I truly thought I was losing my mind, and it frustrated me greatly as I was someone who had studied nutrition and was been using nutrition therapy as a means to keep my symptoms at bay, and couldn’t seem to receive relief of any kind after my head injury. Going on medication was not an option for me, because I know in my heart how nature is the greatest healer of all. But even at this time, it felt like nature was failing me, and from time to time we really need a little extra help from supplements.

This information comes from a deep place of walking in the shoes of someone who lived with what felt like a terrifying psychiatric condition. I know what it’s like to feel completely at wits end and suicidal – but it was this protocol in combination with other therapies that sincerely changed my life. My one wish is that you will employ these powerful supplements, in combination with living a most naturalistic life.

I offer personal sessions and programs in addition to help guide those to a safe place of radiant health and healing for those with depression and mental conditions. If you are someone who suffers from Seasonal Depression, or any mental conditions of any kind please take this advice and share this article with your loved ones or those you know who are struggling – it can save a life!

To your Radiant and Warm Winter,

Marina

Marina Love is an Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.

Here we are, the brink of 2018 about to drop itself down into the measurement of time. We hear many people throughout the years say, “we have arrived at an incredible time in human history”. But didn’t we always throughout history make such grandiose statements as such? The only difference was back then the Mayan calendar was still calculating and it wasn’t due to end until after 2012. Now, at this place we are at in time we have more leverage from the predictions of our ancient ancestors.

I would like to believe and share my faith with you that we are on the brink of something really amazing. I would love to generate hope in all of your hearts, and give you something deep to chew on. But we must first look at the fact that we have a big crime plaguing humanity and as long as we keep that evolving into more disconnection between us, the gap of separation will grow us further and further apart, preventing unity and harmony in our world.

What got us into so much trouble was the rise of social media and the power we gave away to it. For example, a woman on Instagram using Photoshop and filters can generate thousands of likes while she puts out false advertising to her network, on the other hand while someone who is raw and real who doesn’t use photoshopped enhancements to bedazzle and fool the eyes of sad consumers is overlooked. The person who lacks likes often is teaching something useful, but as we can see it’s a popularity contest. One that is making us feel so inadequate.

See what the majority are favouring humanity?

It’s not just Instagram that is creating this illness for not just women, but men too, and we can even see how much we worship the Gods/Goddesses of pop when we look through YouTube videos and see just how many people watch music videos opposed to “how to” instructional videos for deeply helpful lifestyle hacks.

I am DEEPLY disturbed lately when I look through the ocean of Instagram and see it painted over with women who are now beginning to resemble blow-up dolls rather than raw, wild, and natural women. The separation widens as our daughters are given the idea that in order to be of value to a man you must have lip injections and fake body parts. Men cannot find connection with women anymore because they cannot love themselves as they are.

Jada Pinkett-Smith Said it correct;

“How is man to recognize his full self, his full power through the eyes of an incomplete woman? The woman who has been stripped of Goddess recognition and diminished to a big ass and full breast for physical comfort only. The woman who has been silenced so she may forget her spiritual essence because her words stir too much thought outside of the pleasure space. The woman who has been diminished to covering all that rots inside of her with weaves and red bottom shoes.”

I am sure the men, who restructured our societies from cultures that honoured woman, had no idea of the outcome. They had no idea that eventually, even men would render themselves empty and longing for meaning, depth and connection.

There is a deep sadness when I witness a man who can’t recognize the emptiness he feels when he objectified himself as a bank account and truly believes he can buy love with things and status. It is painful to witness the betrayal when a woman takes him up on that offer……

But who are we really to blame? We are subjected to subliminal messaging non-stop 24/7 that talks about money, cars, hoes. And now we have social media and other faux-enhancing messengers poisoning our minds and hearts.

This popularity contest and faux beauty pageant must end.

Why are we doing this to ourselves? I have asked this question sincerely over and over again throughout the years. We have become a society that is based on smoke and mirrors and bragging rather than inspiring others as we walk each other home.

You aren’t sharing anything useful unless you are teaching others how to be free.

I don’t care about how amazing the results are you are getting your clients, how much money you are spending on healing sound tools, your green juices, your yoga poses, how luxurious your life is, your travel photos, how great you are and how much you are accomplishing each day. Really I don’t. I don’t give a f#@k. However, I DEEPLY DEEPLY care about how you inspire and teach others, and that you send the message of “we are all in this together” rather than “Look at me! look at me! look at me!”

It’s time we use social media in a much more constructive and progressive manner. One that inspires and uplifts in the holistic sense. Not posting photos of our half-naked bodies at the gym, selfie, after selfie, after selfie….This is not helping anyone. This game is teaching us to hide behind our electronics, generating false images, asking for popularity, and not connecting authentically anymore. So many of us are feeling emptier than ever as a result. As we live predominantly by the mind and it’s stimuli….

You haven’t even stroked the essence of what it truly means to be human if you haven’t lived with an open heart.

Societies collective echo shouts “but it’s not cool to open your heart, to share your vulnerabilities. It’s cool to snap a selfie, Photoshop yourself until you don’t even resemble the identity you were born as, slap on an even more faux enhancing filter, post, and wait for the likes to roll in.”

I’m truly disturbed by the collective obsession with this, and the destruction that worshipping pop culture is creating for us.

My beloved and I made this video this summer. Yes it was half-scripted, I was lacking the ability to trust myself that I would say the right damn thing clearly and concisely. You know making a good video requires planning and procedure. Even with all that planning I still managed to make a mistake in the end quote.

I think some of the best videos and most authentic information I have shared with you all came from me being raw and candid. I wish to provide you with more quality content that comes from this space opposed to the obsessive planning etc. I don’t care about being perfect, I care about providing a shift in thought.

You haven’t even experienced being truly human unless you have travelled deeply into the seat of your heart and through that sacred inner temple, have come to know your own soul….. from that space you walk with sovereignty and a richness that nothing and nobody could ever take from you.

……..and all the bragging and selfies in the world aren’t going to grant you that.

So shut up and share your most authentic version of your heart if you dare. If you want to see humanity go ANYWHERE. You can’t blame anyone for our state of affairs if you aren’t contributing that special gift that only you have.

In my journey, 2016 was the year of the great purge, 2017 was the year of finding alignment (even if it meant great destruction and rapid changes), 2018 is looking like a year of integration.

I am looking forward to what this will look like for humanity…if we will actually allow ourselves to integrate back into the space of wholeness and truth. Vulnerability is going to save us, not logic nor reason, the mind won’t figure this one out.

ONLY THE HEART CAN DO THAT.

I hope you have read this with an open heart and mind. YOU are forever BOLD with a dear sincere HEART OF GOLD in the greatest LOVE STORY ever told!

Blessings for this new year!

Marina Love is a Heart Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.

You may have been noticing that over the last year I discovered a Potion ingredient that I cannot live without! In this article I want to share with you why I am fanatic about it this beauty and performance magician.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is a key constituent of all connective tissues. Collagen provides the infrastructure of the musculoskeletal system, essential for mobility. The intake of collagen ensures the cohesion, elasticity and regeneration of skin, hair, tendon, cartilage, bones and joints. Collagen is a protein made up of amino acids: glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and arginine. The composition of collagen is considered unique given its high hydroxyproline content. If you lack the amino acids that combine to form collagen, your body’s cells can’t produce enough of it. Threonine is an essential amino acid for collagen production. There are many benefits of collagen such as healthy skin promotion and balanced nutrition for athletic performance.

Collagen Peptides are a natural bioactive ingredient that improves epidermis moisture content and prevents skin aging. Several studies have demonstrated that Collagen Peptides are highly digestible. More than 90% of collagen peptides are digested and quickly absorbed after oral ingestion. In order to be active, Collagen Peptides must have an excellent bioavailability. This has been confirmed in animals and human after oral administration wherein 95% was absorbed within the first 12 hours.

Collagen Peptides supply amino acids that are needed to build new collagen. Collagen Peptides are high in specific amino acids such as Glycine and Proline that are especially needed for the production of new collagen. The Collagen Peptides stimulate certain cells (fibroblasts, osteoblasts) to build new collagen. Supplementation with 30 – 70 grams of collagen peptides per day showed a reduction of risk for injuries on muscle, tendons, and ligaments in athletes. [6] Collagen supplements are the perfect protein to consume before and after exercise, helping to maintain and restore the protein content of muscle. Collagen Peptides, which consists of 20% glycine and 8% arginine, may help the synthesis of creatine in the body. Creatine has been shown to help improve performance during short periods of exercise, thus helping athletes to increase their body mass and reduce body fat percentage. [7] Creatine is made of three amino-acids, glycine, arginine, and methionine. Each serving of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides contains 4.12g of Glycine, 1.68g of Arginine, and 120mg of methionine.

Marina Love is a Heart Alchemist and Purveyor of Transformation. Being a leader in the fields of Holistic Healing, Nutrition, Herbalism, Longevity, Beauty, Entrepreneurship & Personal/Spiritual Development. Marina studied extensively with The BodyMind Institute and various private programs and individuals to acquire authentic knowledge and wisdom. Marina offers Goddess Circles, Cacao Ceremonies and Individual therapy sessions & Programs in addition to her projects Goddesspreneur Academy, Love Movement, House of Aphrodisia and Guiltless Chocolates/Beyond Desserts. Her heart’s mission is to return humanity from headless living into heart harmony based conscious living for the freedom, expansion, and sustainability of the greater good.